Gauge theory is now recognized as one of the most revolutionary discoveries in physics since the development of quantum mechanics. This primer explains how and why gauge theory has dramatically changed our view of the fundamental forces of nature. The text is designed for the non-specialist. A new, intuitive approach is used to make the ideas of gauge theory accessible to both scientists and students with only a background in quantum mechanics. Emphasis is placed on the physics rather than the formalism.Contents:
Readership: Students and researchers in high energy physics and mathematical physics.
- Introduction
- The Einstein Connection
- Weyl's Gauge Theory
- The Aharonov-Bohm Effect
- Isospin and the New Gauge Theory
- Yang-Mills Gauge Theory
- Maxwell Equations in Gauge Theory
- Leptons and Quarks
- The Weak Interaction
- The Dark Age of Field Theory
- Symmetry Breaking in Gauge Theory
- The Superconductor Analogy
- Weinberg-Salam Unified Theory
- Unification and Renormalization
- Color Gauge Theory
- Aymptotic Freedom and the Running Coupling Constant
- Topology in Gauge Theory
- Flux Trapping and Vortices
- Dirac Magnetic Monopole
- Appendix on Key Concepts in Group Theory
Readership: Students and researchers in high energy physics and mathematical physics.
